Description
You’re looking at a 20-gauge semi-auto shotgun that’s built to handle the field and the range without breaking your shoulder or your wallet. The Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, Bronze Toned Receiver Walnut Stock is a gas-operated workhorse designed for upland hunting, clay sports, and general-purpose use. It offers a blend of Beretta’s proven reliability in a lighter, softer-shooting package that’s a smart step up from budget autoloaders without hitting custom-grade prices.
Here’s the thing—when you’re shopping in the $1400 range, you’re making a serious investment. You want performance that justifies skipping the $800 models, and the A400 Xplor Action delivers. At $1409.06, it sits in a sweet spot. It’s more refined than entry-level autos, yet it avoids the premium for features you might not need. The value is in the details: the reduced-recoil system, the durable finish, and that classic walnut stock. It’s a shotgun you buy once.
Key Features & Practical Value
The heart of this shotgun is Beretta’s proprietary gas system. It’s designed to cycle everything from light target loads to hefty 3″ magnums reliably. That versatility is a huge bang-for-buck factor. You aren’t locked into expensive ammunition; you can practice with cheap bulk packs and hunt with heavier stuff. The system also soaks up a significant amount of felt recoil. After a long day in the field or 100 clays, your shoulder will thank you—that’s a practical benefit you can’t undervalue.
Then there’s the build. The bronze-toned receiver isn’t just for looks; it’s a tough anodized finish that resists corrosion, a must for Missouri’s variable weather. The 28″ barrel provides a smooth swing for wingshooting and a long sight plane for consistent hits. The real walnut stock adds classic aesthetics and durability where cheaper synthetics can feel hollow. This model is drop-in ready for most shooters, with a length of pull around 14 3/8″ and a weight hovering near 6.5 pounds. It points naturally, right out of the box.
Let’s talk tradeoffs. The walnut stock is beautiful but requires more care than synthetic. The 20-gauge is lighter and softer shooting than a 12-gauge, making it fantastic for younger shooters or those sensitive to recoil, but ammunition can be slightly more expensive per box. The 3″ chamber gives you flexibility, but most 20-gauge target and field loads are 2 3/4″, so you’re paying for capability you may use less often. It’s a balance, but one that leans toward long-term utility.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Receiver Finish | Bronze Anodized |
| Stock | Walnut |
| Action | Gas-Operated Semi-Auto |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extremely soft-shooting due to the advanced gas system. High-quality, durable construction with a corrosion-resistant finish. Versatile—handles a wide range of loads reliably. The 20-gauge platform is lightweight and easy to carry all day. Classic aesthetics with real walnut. Strong resale value for the Beretta name.
Cons: Higher initial cost than entry-level autoloaders. Walnut needs more maintenance than synthetic. 20-gauge ammo can cost a bit more than 12-gauge. The 28″ barrel might feel long for tight-cover hunting for some users.
Who Is This For?
This is the shotgun for the hunter or sport shooter who has outgrown their first auto-loader and wants a lifetime gun without a custom-shop price tag. It’s perfect for the Missouri upland hunter chasing pheasant and quail over a long day. It’s ideal for the recreational clay shooter who wants reliability and reduced fatigue. It’s also an excellent choice for a newer shooter who wants to start with a top-tier, manageable 20-gauge that will last for decades. This firearm ships to Missouri and compliant US states through your local FFL.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun shoot 2 3/4″ shells?
A: Absolutely. The 3″ chamber handles 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells interchangeably. The gas system is self-regulating, so it will cycle light 2 3/4″ target loads just as reliably as heavier hunting loads.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: Yes, it comes with Beretta’s Mobilechoke system (compatible with Beretta 686/687 choke tubes). Typically, it includes a set of flush-mounted chokes (e.g., IC, M, F), giving you flexibility for different shooting situations right away.
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a more expensive A400 model?
A: The “Action” line is the core, no-frills version of the A400. You get the same essential action, gas system, and reliability as higher-tier models like the A400 Xtreme Plus, but without features like the Kick-Off mega-recoil reducer or the extended weatherproofing. You’re paying for the proven performance, not extra bells and whistles.
If the balance of proven performance, reduced recoil, and classic style fits your needs, the Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20-gauge represents a sound investment for years of reliable service. View availability and order details on our site.
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